What does opinionatedness mean?
Opinionatedness is the quality of being strongly inclined to hold, defend, and express definite views. It suggests more than simply having personal opinions: the term often implies confidence, firmness, and a readiness to challenge disagreement. In criticism, it can suggest dogmatism, impatience, or an unwillingness to consider other perspectives, though it may also be used playfully to describe someone who is outspoken or intellectually assertive. The noun is related to the adjective opinionated and can refer either to a person’s general manner or to a recurring tendency in conversation. Because it emphasizes the manner and intensity of expressing views, opinionatedness is commonly used when describing strong personalities, public disagreements, or arguments. The related word opinion describes a particular belief, whereas opinionatedness focuses on how firmly and prominently such beliefs are held and expressed.
nounThe quality of being opinionated, especially of holding strong views and expressing them forcefully or dogmatically. It can also refer to the habit of forming and asserting definite opinions.
- The state or quality of holding and expressing strong opinions with confidence, especially in a forceful or dogmatic way.
- The habit of forming definite opinions and presenting them as settled or authoritative.
"Her opinionatedness made every discussion feel like a debate."
"His opinionatedness is most evident when he discusses politics."
"She tried to soften her opinionatedness by listening without immediately replying."
Usually treated as a mass or abstract noun; the plural form is uncommon but possible when referring to different instances or kinds of opinionatedness.
"The article compares the opinionatednesses of two prominent political commentators."
Opinionatedness turns having convictions into a communication style—and sometimes a public personality.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does opinionatedness come from?
The word is formed from opinionated plus the suffix -ness, which creates a noun expressing a quality or state. Opinionated comes from opinion, ultimately from Latin opinio, meaning belief, judgment, or opinion. The English word developed through Old French opinion, while the related verb opine also reflects the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How opinionatedness is actually used
Usually mildly critical or disapproving, especially when the behavior is perceived as inflexible. It can be less negative when used affectionately or humorously.